1981 Camaro Z28 / Backfire, loss power, no start

[1981Camaroz28Bayarea]

HELP! Got my 81 camaro z28 back and it backfired from carb, lost power multiple times on highway and now wont start. Eventually from stop to go, it would only roll with WEAK POWER foot on accelerator hard. NOw im parked, and i get one click of starter, but no start…. What would cause the backfire then loss of power, now no start??? And now not even start? New battery, new starter, new carburator… this was happening before i added these parts and after… please help!!!! Stock camaro z28 350 (no smog). We thought torque converter cable housing was sticking to cable, it was, fixed the sheath around it, but still…. Now wont even start. Lights work “not battery”. HELP ME PLEASE?

 

[hubedobeedo]

sounds like more than 1 problem. Curios you just got back from where? if it backfires though carb check for timing issue could be distributor needs adjusted .no start, check your wires for ignition and battery. There is a wire from battery to core support junction i believe, that will cause a no start but still have lights. Check your grounds.

 

[Twisted_Metal]

Bad battery cable or engine ground would be my guess.

 

[hubedobeedo]

make sure your neutral safety switch is adjusted and working.

 

[1981Camaroz28Bayarea]

sounds like more than 1 problem. Curios you just got back from where? if it backfires though carb check for timing issue could be distributor needs adjusted .no start, check your wires for ignition and battery. There is a wire from battery to core support junction i believe, that will cause a no start but still have lights. Check your grounds.

Back from a mechanic. 40 miles drive. Brand new starter, but it just clicks now. Maybe bad starter again? Will check distributor, timing is advanced i believe 112.

 

[COPO]

Check the connections at the starter and battery. The thinner gauge wires at the starter near the exhaust heat will deteriorate.

 

[tom3]

Pull the headlights on, hit the starter. If the lights stay bright the battery cables are probably ok. If they go out and stay out there's a problem in the main cables.

 

[ls777z]

aftermarket carb? Holley? if it backfired you could have blown out the power valve...been there....

 

[Fwyflier]

Timing chain?

 

[dcozzi]

This may sound stupid but, did you check the alternator?